New Anthology Celebrates Immigrant Journeys to Canada
Exploring "Old Roots, New Shoots": An Anthology Celebrating Immigrant Resilience in Canada
The recently released anthology Old Roots, New Shoots, curated by the Immigrant Writers Association, showcases a vibrant tapestry of immigrant narratives from across Canada. This collection reflects the resilience, creativity, and ambition of individuals who have ventured to build new lives in a foreign land. Within its pages, twelve distinct voices share their journeys, interweaving their past experiences with aspirations for the future.
A notable contribution comes from the anthology’s founder, Gerard Keledjian, who recounts the inception of the New Canadians TV show, which is set to embark on its tenth season in 2024-25. As Canada’s only television program dedicated to immigrant stories, New Canadians has become a vital platform for newcomers, providing them with essential information and fostering community connections.
In his chapter titled "Navigating New Horizons," Gerard reflects on his own challenges as an immigrant. He shares how his initial foray into Canadian broadcasting started as a means to build a portfolio after relocating from a successful career in Beirut and Dubai. His show, Introducing Toronto, was intended as a stepping stone but unexpectedly blossomed into a community lifeline, receiving enthusiastic support from both immigrants and the organizations that assist them.
Gerard’s journey was not without its hurdles. From securing initial funding to adapting to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he faced numerous obstacles. The pandemic, in particular, forced a temporary halt to production and caused the loss of a major sponsor. Yet, out of this adversity emerged innovation: the launch of Café New Canadians, the network’s first virtual talk show, allowing continued engagement with the community during a time of uncertainty.
Looking forward, Gerard remains optimistic about the future of the New Canadians TV Network. His commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of newcomers is unwavering, as he continues to navigate the evolving landscape of immigrant services in Canada.
The anthology Old Roots, New Shoots is a testament to the diverse experiences of immigrants, featuring contributions from individuals hailing from nations such as Bangladesh, Iran, Lebanon, and many others. This sixth installment from the Immigrant Writers Association includes fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, and notably introduces contributions in French for the first time. The metaphor of roots nurturing new shoots is fitting, as it encapsulates the journeys of immigrants who seek fertile ground in Canada to cultivate their talents and dreams.
For readers interested in the complex narratives of immigrants, this anthology offers rich insights and heartfelt stories. As Gerard Keledjian’s experiences illustrate, the journey of starting anew is fraught with challenges, yet it is also filled with hope and the potential for growth.
Engage with these powerful stories by picking up a copy of Old Roots, New Shoots and sharing it with friends and family who seek to understand the immigrant experience in Canada. Through these narratives, we can celebrate the resilience that defines our multicultural society and the countless contributions that immigrants make to the fabric of Canadian life.
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